Our supply chain

To address the impact our business makes on the communities in which we work, we operate a policy of sustainable procurement

We have links with national bodies such as DEFRA, the Soil Association, Public Sector Procurement Initiative, the Institute of Grocery Distributors (IGD) and Business in the Community.

We also have an extensive range of products sourced because of their clear regional provenance, quality and integrity.

Within our businesses we:

• Buy direct from growers and producers; ensuring we can maintain a robust supply chain, complete traceability and oversee supplier due diligence

• We can access more than 60 local bakers who are an average 30 miles from our units for Chartwells schools that don't have on-site baking

• Use a regional distribution hub in Boston, Lincolnshire, ensuring none of our fresh produce travels too far

• Source 100% of our root vegetables from the UK - where seasonality and quality allow

• Support Fairtrade farmers - we were the first foodservice operator to purchase only Fairtrade bananas

• Can offer clients a totally Fairtrade solution if they wish

• Endorse the Farm Animal Welfare Council's Five Freedoms concept

• Provide fresh poultry which is British Red Tractor Farm Assured

• Supply Welsh lamb, Scottish beef, Gloucester spot pork, Greshingham duck and a range of other regional meats, where clients request it

• Have a range of Soil Association accredited products available which support organic choices

• Source 100% of our milk from the UK either through the Dairy Farmers of Britain (DFoB) co-operative, or - where we use organic milk - through Rachel's Dairy.

Find out more about our world-class supply chain.